Johor housing board to get off the ground early next year

The Johor Housing and Real Property Board is expected to get off the ground in the first quarter of next year, said Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.

"We have to get the right human resource, the right CEO. It is a very challenging task," he told reporters at a news conference here on Monday.

The setting up of the board resulted from the approval of the Johor Housing and Real Property Board Bill by the Johor State Assembly on Monday.

Mohamed Khaled said the state government hoped no quarters would continue to cast aspersion on the setting up of the board as it would clearly support and defend the principles of constitutional monarchy and parliamentary democracy practiced over the years.

He said the state government abided by the main principles and basic question that the Sultan would act on the advice of the menteri besar as enshrined in the Johor state law.

"The Sultan was notified of the 10 amendments made to the Bill for which His Highness has no objection as he knows that he acts on the advice of the menteri besar," he added.

Mohamed Khaled brushed aside a suggestion that the amendments were made following uproar from various quarters, including Umno leaders.

"I went ahead to table the Bill as the views expressed showed that they don't know what they are talking about and are puzzled over comments derived from convoluted facts," he said.

Mohamed Khaled said he took the criticisms and comments in good faith but remained adamant as he realised the importance of the setting up of the board which could be enhanced to suit the changing times.

He said the state government was committed in spearheading efforts in making specific housing plans and resolving housing issues and challenges faced by the people.